Objective:
Develop an online resource for analyzing and presenting genomic information for insects of agricultural importance. Coordinate efforts between University researchers, ARS researchers, and the National Agricultural Library to develop insect genomics. Provide a structure for outside researchers to access genomic information from pollinators, crop pests, and other insects of importance to humans.

Approach:
By leveraging the database resources available at the University of Maryland, ARS research Labs (including the Bee Research Lab) and at the National Agricultural Library (NAL), this SCA will develop a relational database for collecting and displaying insect genomic information. The project will also lead to a web-based ‘playground’ where ARS and University scientists in the U.S. and abroad can access insect genomic data and add insights into genetic traits that affect insect health. The database will be based on the Tripel and Drupel database schema, which are standard for both major genomic centers (including the National Institutes of Health) and for library resources at the NAL.